Who is the real-life Sheriff of Nottingham and what do they do?

If you’re familiar with the legend of Robin Hood, then you probably will have heard of the Sheriff of Nottingham. 

As the story goes, the Sheriff of Nottingham is Robin Hood’s main antagonist, inspiring him to steal from the rich and give to the poor. 

In most versions of the story, the Sheriff of Nottingham is perceived as an unlikeable man who subjects the people of Nottinghamshire to high taxes. 

Although the legend of Robin Hood dates back to the 14th century, we can’t be certain who the Sheriff of Nottingham character is based on. 

Nottingham’s first Sheriffs, William Sadler and Thomas Lyng, were appointed in 1449 when the city was divided into two parts. 

In 1835 the Boroughs of Nottingham were abolished, and the town became one with a new Council of Nottingham, which resulted in Nottingham having one Sheriff.

Since 1449 hundreds of people have held the Sheriff position, but what do they actually do? 

Who is the current Sheriff of Nottingham and what are they responsible for? 

The current Sheriff is Councillor Shuguftah Quddoos, who was sworn in last May. 

Responsible for the Berridge ward, Councillor Quddoos is the first South Asian woman to be named Sheriff. 

According to Nottingham City Council, Councillor Quddoos has the following duties as Sheriff. 

• To support the tourism strategy for the city and county by promoting Nottingham as a destination for visitors for short breaks, conferences, business and shopping

• To welcome tourists and visitors to the city at various events, including conferences and entertainment/hospitality venues

• To encourage local residents to use and take part in cultural/ leisure activities opportunities in the city.

• Opening new retail, entertainment or visitor attractions in the city 

A new Sheriff is chosen each May by the Lord Mayor of Nottingham.